Overcoming Abuse: A Phenomenological Investigation of the Journey to Recovery From Past Intimate Partner Violence

To date, minimal research has focused on the recovery process for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). This study utilized a phenomenological methodology to understand the lived experiences of survivors of IPV (N = 123) who had overcome abusive relationships and created violence-free and me...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inJournal of interpersonal violence Vol. 32; no. 22; pp. 3373 - 3401
Main Authors Flasch, Paulina, Murray, Christine E., Crowe, Allison
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Los Angeles, CA SAGE Publications 01.11.2017
SAGE PUBLICATIONS, INC
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Summary:To date, minimal research has focused on the recovery process for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). This study utilized a phenomenological methodology to understand the lived experiences of survivors of IPV (N = 123) who had overcome abusive relationships and created violence-free and meaningful lives. The researchers aimed to understand key factors involved in their recovery processes. Results indicated two main processes in the IPV recovery process: intrapersonal processes and interpersonal processes. Intrapersonal processes included (a) regaining and recreating one’s identity, (b) embracing the freedom and power to direct one’s own life, (c) healing from the mental and physical health symptoms of the abuse, (d) fostering acceptance and forgiveness with self and abuser, (e) education and examination of abusive relationships, (f) determining whether and how to enter new intimate relationships, and (g) acknowledging the long-term process of overcoming abuse. Interpersonal processes included themes of (a) building positive social support and relationships and (b) using ones’ experiences with abuse to help others. Results of the present study are presented, and implications for practitioners are discussed.
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ISSN:0886-2605
1552-6518
DOI:10.1177/0886260515599161